Linaclotide: Uses, indications and cautions when using

Linaclotide is used in the treatment of some bowel problems such as irritable bowel syndrome with constipation, chronic idiopathic constipation,... Linaclotide can improve stool texture and relieve symptoms such as: flatulence, abdominal pain, straining, feeling of incomplete urination,...

What is Linaclotide? Linaclotide is used to treat certain types of bowel problems, such as irritable bowel syndrome with constipation, and chronic idiopathic constipation. Linaclotide works by increasing fluid in the intestines and helping to speed the movement of food through the intestines. Linaclotide can improve stool texture and relieve symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, discomfort, straining and the sensation of incomplete urination. Linaclotide should not be used in children younger than 6 years old because of the risk of serious side effects.

Read the dosing instructions provided by your pharmacist carefully before you start taking Linaclotide and each time you get a refill. Take this medication by mouth before meals on an empty stomach as directed by your doctor, usually once daily at least 30 minutes before the first meal of the day. Swallow the capsule whole and do not break or chew the capsule. If you have difficulty swallowing the capsule, you can open it and mix it with about 30ml of water, stir the mixture for 20 seconds and drink it right away without chewing. Add 30ml of water to the cup then shake for 20 seconds and drink to get the full dose of the medicine. The mixture can also be given through a nasogastric tube for patients who cannot swallow.
Linaclotide dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Use Linaclotide regularly to get the most benefit from it. To make it easier for you to remember when to take your medicine, take it at the same time each day. Never increase the dose or abuse the drug for longer than prescribed. This not only makes the condition improve faster, but also increases the risk of unwanted effects.

Some unwanted effects that may occur when using Linaclotide include:
Diarrhea: if the diarrhea gets worse, you may have to stop taking the medicine. Bloating Abdominal pain, upset stomach Discomfort Before prescribing, doctors always weigh the benefits of Linaclotide more than the risk of side effects. However, in some cases, when taking Linaclotide, there may still be unwanted effects. Therefore, when you see unusual signs, especially when an allergic reaction occurs such as rash, itching or swelling of the face, tongue, throat, difficulty breathing, severe dizziness, ... In this case, the patient should immediately notify the doctor for prompt medical intervention.

Some notes when using Linaclotide include:
Report a history of allergy to Linaclotide or any other allergies. Linaclotide medicinal products may contain inactive ingredients and may cause side effects or other serious problems. Take a medical history, especially a blockage of the stomach or intestines Before surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about any medications you are taking including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and minerals. herbs,... During pregnancy and lactation, Linaclotide should only be used when absolutely necessary. Discuss the risks and benefits of the drug, and consult with your doctor before breast-feeding. If you forget to take a dose of Linaclotide, take it again as soon as possible. However, if the time you remember to take your missed dose is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the next scheduled dose. Absolutely do not use more than double the dose than the treatment regimen. Linaclotide overdose can cause serious symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, severe dizziness, weakness,...

Drug interactions can decrease the effectiveness of Linaclotide, or increase the effect of unwanted effects. Some products may interact with Linaclotide such as pramlintide. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines and herbal products. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine without your doctor's consent.

Store Linaclotide at room temperature, away from moisture and light. To help protect from moisture, keep the desiccant in an airtight container. Do not store Linaclotide in a humid place or in the freezer. Each medicine will have different storage methods, so read the instructions on the packaging for Linaclotide carefully, or ask your pharmacist. Keep Linaclotide out of the reach of children and family pets. When medicine is past its expiration date or cannot be used, dispose of it properly. Do not arbitrarily dispose of Linaclotide into an environment such as a water pipe or toilet unless requested to do so. Ask your waste disposal company or pharmacist for advice on how to safely dispose of Linaclotide to help protect the environment.
In summary, Linaclotide is a medicine that is effective in the treatment of several types of bowel problems such as irritable bowel syndrome with constipation, chronic idiopathic constipation, as well as improving stool texture and reducing stools. symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, discomfort, pain and incomplete urination. However, Linaclotide can cause some unwanted effects and drug interactions, so tell your doctor. doctor the medicinal products you are taking to reduce the risk of side effects and increase the effectiveness of your treatment.

Reference source: webmd.com